The Baltimore Ravens are commended for re-signing Ronnie Stanley, securing a significant deal extension that strengthens their offensive line.
In a move that has sent waves of excitement through the Baltimore Ravens’ fanbase and around the NFL, the team has re-signed left tackle Ronnie Stanley to a significant contract extension. As one of the cornerstones of the Ravens’ offensive line, Stanley’s return is being hailed as a crucial decision that not only solidifies the front line but also provides quarterback Lamar Jackson with the protection he needs to continue thriving in the team’s offense.
Stanley, the sixth overall pick in the 2016 NFL Draft, has long been regarded as one of the league’s top offensive linemen. Since joining the Ravens, he has been a pivotal figure in their running and passing game. The Ravens have long prided themselves on having one of the most dominant and physical offenses in the NFL, and Stanley’s role in ensuring that success cannot be overstated. Now, with his new contract extension, the Ravens have solidified their investment in the offensive line, allowing them to build a more secure future for Lamar Jackson and the offense.
In this article, we will explore the importance of Stanley’s re-signing, the impact it will have on the Ravens’ offensive line, and why this move is being praised by analysts, coaches, and fans alike.
Ronnie Stanley’s Importance to the Ravens
Before diving into the specifics of the signing, it’s important to understand just how vital Stanley is to the Ravens’ success. Left tackle is arguably the most important position on the offensive line. The job of protecting the quarterback’s blind side, particularly for a quarterback like Lamar Jackson, cannot be overstated. Jackson’s ability to run and scramble out of the pocket is a huge part of his dynamic skill set, but that doesn’t mean he can do it without a solid foundation in front of him. In fact, Jackson has made it clear that the offensive line’s success is integral to his ability to make plays.
Stanley, when healthy, has been one of the best left tackles in the NFL. In his career, Stanley has been named to one Pro Bowl (2020) and has been consistently praised for his strong, technique-driven play. His ability to anchor the left side of the line in both pass protection and run blocking has been a major reason why the Ravens have been able to run the ball effectively, especially with their mobile quarterbacks and running backs like Lamar Jackson and J.K. Dobbins.
Stanley’s pass-blocking ability has particularly been a key to the Ravens’ success. Jackson’s style of play places unique demands on the offensive line. While he is a dynamic playmaker who can escape pressure with his legs, the Ravens’ offense thrives on a mix of pocket passing and mobile plays. Stanley’s ability to block pass rushers while maintaining his positioning has allowed Jackson to stay upright and make plays from the pocket, which in turn opens up the field for deep passes and outside runs.
Furthermore, Stanley is an integral part of the Ravens’ run-first mentality. The team has been known for its aggressive, power-running offense led by Jackson, and Stanley has been at the forefront of that blocking scheme. Whether it’s for a traditional handoff to the running back or a designed run for Jackson, Stanley’s ability to block and open up lanes has been paramount in creating space for big runs.
What the Contract Means for Stanley and the Ravens
Stanley’s contract extension, which reportedly guarantees him a substantial amount of money, is a reflection of his immense value to the Ravens’ offense. With this new deal, Stanley is locked in as the cornerstone of the team’s offensive line for years to come, allowing the Ravens to build around him as they continue to evolve their offensive attack.
This move ensures that the Ravens won’t have to go through the process of replacing a player of Stanley’s caliber. Offensive line continuity is crucial in the NFL, and having a Pro Bowl-caliber left tackle for the long term creates stability for both Jackson and the rest of the offensive line. This deal also allows the Ravens to focus on adding additional pieces to the offensive line, ensuring that the overall unit is strong enough to protect Jackson and generate consistent running lanes.
For Stanley, the contract extension provides financial security and allows him to continue his career in Baltimore, a team he has been with since being drafted. Stanley’s journey to becoming one of the league’s top left tackles has been marked by hard work, perseverance, and overcoming injuries. His ability to stay focused and maintain a high level of play even after injury setbacks speaks volumes about his mental fortitude.
The Impact on Lamar Jackson and the Ravens’ Offense
The re-signing of Stanley is also a major boost for Lamar Jackson, who has often had to deal with inconsistent offensive line play throughout his career. Jackson has been the centerpiece of the Ravens’ offense since he took over as the starter in 2018, and Stanley’s presence on the line is essential in ensuring that Jackson can continue to perform at an elite level.
Over the past few seasons, Jackson has faced challenges in terms of protection, with injuries and rotational players affecting the overall play of the offensive line. By re-signing Stanley, the Ravens are showing their commitment to providing Jackson with the protection he needs to be effective. A healthy and well-protected Jackson is a game-changer for the Ravens, and Stanley’s ability to keep pressure off Jackson’s blind side is crucial in making that happen.
Beyond Jackson, the Ravens’ offense as a whole will benefit from Stanley’s continued presence. The running game, which is the foundation of the Ravens’ attack, will also be in better shape. Stanley’s blocking ability creates the foundation for running backs like J.K. Dobbins and Gus Edwards to find running lanes, while also giving Jackson the ability to make plays on the ground when necessary. This offensive line stability allows the Ravens to maintain their aggressive ground attack while keeping Jackson safe and giving him the chance to make big plays in the passing game.
Ravens Fans React to the Re-Signing
The Ravens’ fanbase has expressed widespread approval of the Stanley re-signing, with many recognizing the importance of keeping their franchise left tackle in place. Fans know how crucial Stanley is to the team’s success, and securing him for the long term has been a move that fans have praised. With the NFL draft approaching and free agency in full swing, this signing brings a sense of stability to the Ravens’ offensive line and ensures that one of the most critical positions on the team remains secure.
Ravens fans understand the importance of a strong offensive line, particularly given the team’s reliance on Jackson’s mobility and ability to create plays outside of the pocket. The signing of Stanley gives fans confidence that the Ravens are committed to giving Jackson the best chance to succeed, especially after the departures and injuries to several key offensive linemen in recent years.
Moreover, fans are excited about what this means for the future of the franchise. Keeping Stanley in the fold allows the Ravens to focus on improving other parts of their roster without worrying about replacing a top-tier left tackle. This deal also signals to fans that the Ravens are willing to invest in the long-term health and success of their offense, creating hope that the team can continue to contend for championships in the coming years.
Praise Around the League
Across the NFL, analysts and coaches have also praised the Ravens’ decision to re-sign Stanley. Many experts agree that maintaining a high-caliber player like Stanley is one of the keys to building a successful offense in the NFL. In a league where the offensive line often gets overlooked, having a Pro Bowl-caliber left tackle can be the difference between success and failure for a quarterback and an offense as a whole.
Ravens head coach John Harbaugh, who has been with the team for years, expressed his excitement about keeping Stanley on the team. Harbaugh understands the significance of the offensive line in any football program, and he has seen firsthand how important Stanley’s leadership and consistency have been for the team. Harbaugh’s praise for Stanley reflects the broader admiration for the left tackle’s importance not only on the field but also in the locker room as a leader and veteran presence.
NFL analysts also point to the Ravens’ commitment to building from the trenches, as re-signing Stanley gives them one of the top offensive line duos in the league. This move should set the stage for a more balanced and powerful offense, with Jackson and the running backs benefitting from improved protection up front.
